The weather in Wisconsin can be harsh year-round. Summer temperatures often climb into the 90s, while winters bring below-zero days and heavy snowfalls. That's why having the right roof is crucial to protect your property.
With Wisconsin’s Severe Weather Awareness Week from April 7-11, 2025, we’re exploring why homeowners in the Badger State choose metal roofing:
- Longevity
- Wind and rain resistance
- Hail resistance
- Ability to withstand heavy snowfalls
- Energy efficiency
- Insurance advantages
- Return on investment
- Low maintenance
- A wide range of profiles and colors
Once you understand the many benefits of metal roofing, you’ll consider making the switch.
1. Longevity
Installing a new roof is a major investment, and it takes time to choose the right color, material, and contractor. That’s why it’s important to select a roof that will stand the test of time and provide the best return on your investment.
Metal roofing lasts two to three times longer than traditional materials like clay tiles, asphalt shingles, or wood shakes. With a metal roof that can last up to 80 years, you won’t have to worry about another replacement in your lifetime. This makes it a smart choice for your home and a valuable selling point if you decide to put your property on the market in the future.
2. Wind and Rain Resistance
Wisconsin, located in the Upper Midwest, is no stranger to extreme weather events. Wind and rain are common throughout the year, with the state experiencing 45 tornadoes in 2024 alone.
DECRA Metal Roofing is warrantied to withstand winds up to 120 miles per hour and has been lab-tested at twice that velocity. It’s also approved for use in high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZs), including Miami-Dade, Florida–home to some of the nation’s strictest building codes. This gives Wisconsin homeowners peace of mind.
3. Hail Resistance
Wisconsin's severe Midwest storms often bring hail, which can lead to significant roof damage. Nationally, the average cost to repair hail damage is around $4,250 per incident.
In 2021, hailstones as large as 4 inches in diameter were reported in Wisconsin, causing dents to shingles and gutters and leading to structural issues like water damage.
Traditional roofing materials, like asphalt shingles, are especially vulnerable to hail damage. That’s why many homeowners appreciate that all DECRA profiles come with a warranty covering hailstones up to 2.5 inches in diameter.
By investing in impact-resistant materials like DECRA, Wisconsin homeowners can better protect their roofs from hail damage, potentially reducing both repair costs and insurance claims over time.
4. Ability to Handle Serious Snow
When people think of Wisconsin, they often picture the massive winter blizzards that blanket the state. The statewide average snowfall is 34 inches, but snow belts like Vilas County can receive up to 125 inches annually, with Madison, the state capital, getting over 50 inches.
If you own a home in Wisconsin, you need a roof that can handle these heavy snowfalls. DECRA Metal Roofing is lightweight yet durable, designed to withstand large amounts of snow without sagging.
Its nonporous texture helps snow slide off the roof instead of accumulating, while its design prevents freeze-thaw cycles that can lead to ice dams–a common issue in Wisconsin that can damage gutters, eaves, and the interior of your home.
5. Energy Efficiency
Last year was Wisconsin’s hottest on record, with summer temperatures reaching as high as 98 degrees. Multiple days in the 90s are common across much of the state.
During those heat waves, the cost of running fans or air conditioners can be steep. Did you know that the type of roofing material you choose can make this expense even higher?
Asphalt shingles, the most commonly used roofing material, have high thermal conductivity and poor insulating properties. This means they trap heat from the sun, making it harder for your home to stay cool.
Metal roofs, on the other hand, do the opposite. They’re considered one of the most energy-efficient roofing materials available, saving homeowners up to 40% on energy costs.
6. Insurance Advantages
Roof repairs can be costly, and while your homeowners insurance should cover the expenses, you’ll still need to pay the deductible.
Some insurers are using drone inspections to evaluate roofs and reassess claims. Homeowners with aging roofs may face higher premiums or even policy cancellations as insurers look to reduce risk.
However, many insurance providers offer discounts for homes with impact-resistant roofing, including metal roofs. While the availability of these discounts varies by state and policy, State Farm, for example, offers savings for homes with Class 4 materials.
DECRA Metal Roofs carry the highest Class 4 rating for hail resistance, making them an excellent option for qualifying for insurance discounts.
7. Return on Investment
When it’s time for a roof repair or replacement, installing a metal roof is a smart investment. A metal roof can boost your home’s value by up to 6%, with many real estate listings highlighting a DECRA roof as a standout feature. Plus, you can expect to recoup an average of 85.9% of your costs on a metal roof. Whether you plan to build equity by staying in the home long-term or sell in the near future, that’s great news for your investment.
8. Low Maintenance
Conventional roofing materials often require high maintenance, with common concerns such as:
- Mold and mildew
- Lichen and moss growth
- Oxidation and rust
With metal roofing, you’ll experience less of these issues. It helps prevent mold and mildew growth and is designed to resist oxidation and rust. This is especially helpful if you live near one of Wisconsin’s many lakes, where humidity levels can be higher.
There’s no need to spend time applying special cleaners either. Simply keep it clear of debris like leaves and twigs, and hose it down a couple of times a year if needed.
9. Wide Range of Profiles and Colors
In Wisconsin, many homes reflect traditional architectural styles, from historic farmhouses to classic colonial and Craftsman designs. If you're considering a roof replacement, you might feel tied to conventional materials like clay tiles or wood shakes to complement your home’s character. The great news is DECRA metal roofing offers profiles that mimic the appearance of shingles, shakes, and tiles. This allows you to enjoy all the benefits of metal roofing while still preserving the classic look of your home.
With over 30 colors available, you can easily match your roof to your home’s exterior, whether you have a simple two-tone design or a more intricate Victorian style with multiple trim shades.
See DECRA on Your Wisconsin Home
Love the benefits of DECRA metal roofing but unsure how it would look on your property? We make it easy to envision how a DECRA roof would enhance your home.
Request a complimentary sample in your preferred profile to get a feel for the look. For a more complete view, try our online visualization tool.
